King James Version
What Does Jeremiah 36:18 Mean?
“Then Baruch answered them, He pronounced all these words unto me with his mouth, and I wrote them with ink in the book.”
Jeremiah 36:18 · KJV
Context
16
Now it came to pass, when they had heard all the words, they were afraid both one and other, and said unto Baruch, We will surely tell the king of all these words.
17
And they asked Baruch, saying, Tell us now, How didst thou write all these words at his mouth?
18
Then Baruch answered them, He pronounced all these words unto me with his mouth, and I wrote them with ink in the book.
19
Then said the princes unto Baruch, Go, hide thee, thou and Jeremiah; and let no man know where ye be.
20
And they went in to the king into the court, but they laid up the roll in the chamber of Elishama the scribe, and told all the words in the ears of the king.
Commentary
KJV Study CommentaryThen Baruch answered them, He pronounced all these words unto me with his mouth (מִפִּיו יִקְרָא, mipiv yiqra—"from his mouth he called/proclaimed"). And I wrote them with ink in the book (בַּדְּיוֹ עַל־הַסֵּפֶר, badyo al-hasepher). Baruch's straightforward answer confirms direct dictation and mechanical transcription using דְּיוֹ (deyo, ink)—likely carbon-based ink on a leather scroll.
This verse provides rare insight into biblical writing process: oral proclamation by the inspired prophet, faithful recording by the trained scribe. Baruch doesn't claim independent revelation; he's a conduit, not a source. The phrase "all these words" (repeated throughout chapter 36) emphasizes complete preservation of the prophetic message. This partnership between prophet and scribe models the dual authorship of Scripture—divine and human.
This verse provides rare insight into biblical writing process: oral proclamation by the inspired prophet, faithful recording by the trained scribe. Baruch doesn't claim independent revelation; he's a conduit, not a source. The phrase "all these words" (repeated throughout chapter 36) emphasizes complete preservation of the prophetic message. This partnership between prophet and scribe models the dual authorship of Scripture—divine and human.
KJV Study — Public Domain
Historical & Cultural Context
Ancient inks were made from carbon (lampblack) or iron-gall mixtures mixed with gum arabic as a binder. Scribes wrote on prepared leather (parchment) or papyrus using reed pens. Professional scribes underwent extensive training in writing, grammar, and legal-administrative practices. Baruch's family background prepared him for this crucial role as Jeremiah's secretary and literary executor.
Reflection Questions
- How does understanding the human process of biblical writing (dictation, transcription, preservation) affect your view of Scripture's authority?
- What gifts and training has God given you to faithfully preserve and communicate His word in your context?
- In what ways are you called to be a "Baruch"—faithfully recording and transmitting truth you've received from others?
Original Language Analysis
Hebrew · 15 wordsלָהֶם֙2 of 15
H0מִפִּיו֙4 of 15
“unto me with his mouth”
H6310the mouth (as the means of blowing), whether literal or figurative (particularly speech); specifically edge, portion or side; adverbially (with prepos
יִקְרָ֣א5 of 15
“them He pronounced”
H7121to call out to (i.e., properly, address by name, but used in a wide variety of applications)
אֵ֥ת7 of 15
H853properly, self (but generally used to point out more definitely the object of a verb or preposition, even or namely)
כָּל8 of 15
H3605properly, the whole; hence, all, any or every (in the singular only, but often in a plural sense)
הַדְּבָרִ֖ים9 of 15
“all these words”
H1697a word; by implication, a matter (as spoken of) or thing; adverbially, a cause
כֹּתֵ֥ב12 of 15
“and I wrote”
H3789to grave, by implication, to write (describe, inscribe, prescribe, subscribe)
עַל13 of 15
H5921above, over, upon, or against (yet always in this last relation with a downward aspect) in a great variety of applications
הַסֵּ֖פֶר14 of 15
“in the book”
H5612properly, writing (the art or a document); by implication, a book
Study Guide
Historical Context
This verse is found in the book of Jeremiah. Understanding the historical and cultural background helps illuminate its meaning for the original audience and for us today.
Theological Significance
Jeremiah 36:18 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.
Cross-References
Verses related to Jeremiah 36:18 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge